Hives and her partner Alison Bai were sent packing from the women’s doubles tournament at the hands of Nao Hibino and Desirae Krawczyk.

The Australian pairing managed just three games in the defeat, losing 6-2 6-1 in just over an hour.

It was a comprehensive display by Hibino and Krawczyk, who won 66 points compared to just 41 by Hives and Bai.

Hives and Bai progressed to the second round match after beating Luksika Kumkhum and Evgeniya Rodina on Thursday.

Following Saturday’s loss, Hives took to Facebook to express her enjoyment of the past week.

“What a week. First AO singles main draw, and first win in both singles and doubles. And with it come career high rankings!,” she wrote.

“A big shoutout to my team, and thanks to everyone for the support and messages. It’s been a surreal experience, and hoping to be back next year!”

Hives reached the second round of the women’s singles after receiving a wildcard entry into the main draw.

She produced a brilliant display to easily beat the experienced Bethanie Mattek-Sands, but was outclassed in round two by world number 19 Caroline Garcia.

Despite the defeat to Garcia, Hives showed glimpses of brilliance and was more than competitive in the 6-3 6-3 loss.

She played on a major arena in front of a big crowd at Melbourne Park, something that she admitted took some time to get familiar with.

The 22-year-old Hives is from Kingston, which is a small town just outside of Creswick near Newlyn.